Commander’s Palace and 1000 Figs add more craft beers and local brews to their menus

After the positive response to Commander's Palace's "BBQ and beer" pairing menu last summer, head bartender Ferrel Dugas says she was able to add craft beers, including local brews, to Commander's menu.

"We got a lot of good feedback in July," Dugas says, noting that higher quality beers are increasingly popular in New Orleans restaurants.

The craft beers now on the menu at Commander's Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 504-899-8221; www.commanderspalace.com) are mostly local or regional, along with Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout from North Coast Brewing in California. The other four selections are Canebrake from Parish Brewing Company in Broussard, Jefferson Stout from Lazy Magnolia Brewing Company in Kiln, Mississippi, Abita Amber and NOLA Brewing's Brown Ale.

The Mid-City restaurant 1000 Figs (3141 Ponce De Leon St., 504-301-0848; www.
1000figs.com) is known for falafel, hummus and Mediterranean food; the brick-and-mortar was spun off from the the Fat Falafel food truck. Since acquiring a license to serve beer and wine in August, the cafe has offered a good beer selection